Maintaining Oriental Rugs

Cleaning Persian rugs requires special care to avoid damage and preserve their beauty and quality. Here are some steps and tips for effectively cleaning Persian & Oriental Rugs:

1. Regular Maintenance - Vacuum your Persian rug regularly to remove surface dirt, dust, and debris. Use a vacuum cleaner with a gentle suction and avoid using beater bars or rotating brushes that can damage the fibres.

2. Spot Cleaning- Address spills and stains promptly to prevent them from setting into the rug. Blot the spill with a clean, white cloth to absorb as much liquid as possible without rubbing or scrubbing.

3. Dry Cleaning - For light maintenance or surface cleaning, you can air out the rug outside on a dry day, then gently beat it with a rug beater to loosen dirt and dust. Avoid beating the rug too vigorously to prevent damage.

4. Professional Cleaning - Consider professional cleaning for deep cleaning and stain removal, especially for valuable or delicate Persian rugs. Look for a rug cleaning service with experience in handling Persian rugs and that uses gentle cleaning techniques suitable for wool and natural fibres.

5. Avoid Harsh Chemicals - Refrain from using harsh chemicals, bleach, or strong cleaning agents on Persian rugs, as they can damage the fibres and colours. Opt for mild, pH-neutral rug cleaners or natural cleaning solutions.

6. Test Cleaning Products - Before using any cleaning solution on the entire rug, test it on a small, inconspicuous area to check for colour-fastness and potential adverse reactions.

7. Hand Washing - If hand washing is necessary, fill a large tub or bathtub with cold water and a mild rug shampoo. Gently agitate the water to create suds, then submerge the rug and lightly scrub with a soft brush or sponge.

8. Rinse and Dry Properly - Rinse the rug thoroughly with cold water to remove all soap residue. Avoid wringing or twisting the rug, as this can damage the fibres. Instead, gently squeeze out excess water and roll the rug in a towel to remove moisture. Lay the rug flat to dry on a clean surface away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Ensure proper air circulation to prevent mildew.

9. Rotate the Rug - To prevent uneven wear and fading, rotate the rug periodically to expose different areas to foot traffic and sunlight. By following these guidelines and taking care to clean your Persian rug gently and appropriately, you can help maintain its beauty and longevity for years to come.